HPV Specifics:
You are not alone. HPV is very common and most sexually active people will be exposed to HPV through skin to skin contact at some point in their lives, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Gay and bisexual men may face higher risks of anal HPV and transgender women carry a higher chance of contracting HPV.
Lesbian and bisexual women are often screened less often. This can happen due to misinformation, fear or past negative healthcare experiences.
Lower vaccination rates can leave people unprotected. Some LGBTQ+ groups are less likely to start or complete the HPV vaccine series, even though it helps prevent so many different types of cancers.
HPV can lead to several cancers with persistent HPV infection causing nearly all types of cervical cancers, about 90% of anal cancers and many head, neck, vaginal, vulvar and penile cancers.
Your care should feel safe and respectful. Everyone deserves providers who listen, affirm their identity, and create a welcoming space for prevention and screening.
HPV vaccination, regular screening, and early care can greatly reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers.
The HPV vaccine can be given anytime between ages 9 and 26 years old to be effective! You can receive the HPV vaccine after 26 years old, but it may not be as effective.
Transgender Men & GYN Cancer
Your gender identity is valid, and you deserve healthcare that honors who you are.
Transgender men can still face gynecologic cancer risks if they have organs such as the cervix, uterus, ovaries, vagina and vulva.
Testosterone does not eliminate the risk of GYN cancer. It can also cause vaginal dryness, irritation, and changes in bleeding patterns which can sometimes mask symptoms or make it have to know what is normal.
Any new, persistent, or worsening symptoms deserve medical attention.
If you have a cervix, regular Pap tests and HPV screening are still important for your health.
Exams can feel uncomfortable or triggering. It’s okay to ask for breaks, options, or a provider who understands gender-affirming care.
If fear or past experiences have made care difficult, you are not alone! Many people feel this way.
Early detection can save lives, and seeking care is an act of strength and self-care.
Family history of breast, ovarian, uterine, or colon cancer can help guide the screening that is right for you.
You deserve compassionate, respectful care where your name, pronouns, and lived experience are valued.
LGB Women & GYN Cancer
If you have a cervix, regular cervical cancer screening is still important for your health. Sexual orientation does not change that need.
HPV can affect anyone and can spread between partners of any gender through skin-to-skin contact.
Pap tests and HPV tests can help find changes early, often before cancer develops.
Symptoms like abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or pain during sex deserve attention and care.
Regular gynecologic visits matter, even if pregnancy prevention is not part of your healthcare needs.
Other gynecologic cancers, including ovarian, uterine, vulvar, and vaginal cancers, can affect women of all sexual orientations.
Ongoing symptoms like bloating, pelvic pain, itching, sores, or unusual bleeding are worth talking about with a provider.
If fear, stigma, or past experiences have made healthcare feel difficult, you are not alone. Many people share those feelings.
You deserve compassionate providers who listen, believe you, and create a safe space for your care.
Family history of cancer can help guide the screening and prevention plan that is right for you.
Caring for yourself through regular checkups, movement, nutrition, and not smoking can support your long-term health.
Additional Resources: